Perhaps the secret to Blaine's success is a defense that takes the ball away and an overall team concept that gives credit away.
Dominating defensive play led Blaine to a 42-14 rout of rival Centennial. No. 4-ranked Blaine (3-0) intercepted three passes, one by Sam Gerrety going for a touchdown, the other two by linebacker Max Bautch that set up scores. The Bengals have intercepted eight passes this season.
Gerrety previously took an interception back for a score against Wayzata.
"It's pretty special and it ignites the team," said Gerrety, who praised the defensive line and linebackers. Shea Gerrety and Tyler Ososki pressured and hammered Centennial quarterback Kyle Nordby and backup Ryan Koob.
Both of Bautch's interceptions set up touchdowns by running back Chase Harper. He praised blockers for clearing his way on a 5-yard run and a 52-yard reception, the latter with no time left in the first half. Blaine built a 28-0 lead at intermission.
Centennial (1-2) broke a stretch of six scoreless quarters with Sammy Byrd's short touchdown run in the third quarter.
"That's a good defense and we're short on the offensive line with injury and inexperience," Cougars coach Mike Diggins said. "Tonight we saw some growth, but against a real good team it's still not enough."
David La Vaque
